CBS Orders ‘Extant’ for Summer 2014, with Steven Spielberg Producing

Scheduling reflects CBS' increased emphasis on summer programming

StevenSpielberg’s Amblin Television and CBS Television Studios have received a straight-to-series order for 13 episodes of futuristic drama thriller “Extant,” to air in summer 2014.

The scheduling reflects CBS’ increased emphasis on premium summer programming, following the successful debut of fellow Amblin project “Under the Dome” on Mondays in June. It has not been determined which night of the week “Extant” will air.

“Extant” tells the story of a female astronaut trying to reconnect with her family after a year in outer space and of experiences she has that affect the course of history.

“‘Extant’ is a very original concept with layers of humanity, mystery and surprise that reveal itself throughout the script,” said CBS Entertainment prexy Nina Tassler. “Our partnership with Amblin for ‘Under the Dome’ showed that viewers respond to high-quality event programming in the summer. We look forward to building on that with ‘Extant’ and offering CBS audiences another high-concept, unique event for summer television.”

“Under the Dome” was originally marketed as a one-season event, but shortly after drawing 17.8 million in live-plus-7 viewing for its June 24 premiere, it was renewed for a second season.